8 Ways to Start Prepping for Fall Semester

07.20.17

While you’re busy having some fun in the sun this summer, let’s not forget that the new term is fast approaching! Time flies, doesn’t it? Here’s how you can start preparing now for fall semester.

1. Get to know your roommate.

The first thing you did after getting your room assignment probably included nervously looking for your roommate on social media and giving them a follow. Maybe you guys even chatted it up a bit! That’s a great start, but don’t shy away from chatting some more. You guys can get to know each other’s interests, schedules, and maybe even start planning your dorm décor.

2. Get a new planner.

Um, hello! This has to be the most exciting part about getting your supplies. Your planner for the new school year is basically your best accessory on campus.

3. Look up the big events.

Prepping for the semester isn’t only about getting your supplies. You can get ready for the fun stuff, too! Start marking your calendar with any big game days or other campus events you’re interested in.

4. Look up clubs & activities.

Getting involved on campus is a MUST for many reasons. You’ll never have a dull moment because there’s always something to do, and the people in these clubs often become a solid group of friends (I mean, you clearly have similar interests if you’re joining the same club!). Plus, you can add these activities to your resume! Check out your school’s clubs and organizations on their site and start planning which ones you’ll join.

5. Make goals.

As cliché as it sounds, it’ll do you good if you start mapping out some goals. Maybe you’re really hoping for a higher GPA, or maybe you’re working on becoming more social on campus. Either way, acknowledging these goals will help keep you on track!

6. Order your textbooks.

Hate it or love it, you’ll definitely need your textbooks for a successful semester. Maybe this will be the year you finally ditch the heavy paper and opt for eTextbooks — think about it!

7. Get your parking permit and meal plan in order.

If you haven’t yet, make sure you’ve figured out everything you’ll need for meals and parking on campus. These things are easy to slip your mind, but you’ll definitely want to remember them.

8. Set a budget.

Okay, we’ll admit that budgeting isn’t really much fun — but you’ve probably heard the stereotype that college students are all broke. Let’s just make sure that you don’t end up that way! Make sure your money lasts by tracking your spending and planning how much you’re willing to dish out on things like food, fun, and necessities. Mint is a great budgeting app if you need help getting started!